New Zealand struck first in the five-match Rose Bowl Series with a tight two-wicket success over Australia in Whangarei. Chasing Australia's 8 for 150, the hosts were in desperate trouble at 7 for 74 before Amy Satterthwaite led the successful recovery with an unbeaten 49 off 91 balls.

Satterthwaite added 74 crucial runs with Lucy Doolan to push the team within sight of victory before Doolan was run out for 34 with three still needed. Rachel Priest stayed with Satterthwaite and the win was sealed with 4.2 overs to go. The result was harsh on Emma Sampson and Rene Farrell (3 for 26), who took the first five wickets for 28 runs as Australia started their defence in brilliant style.

Australia's innings had also begun in horrible fashion as they slipped to 5 for 39 in the 16th over. Jodie Fields put her head down for 52, which included six fours from 94 deliveries, and she gained the most help from Ellyse Perry (29).

Abby Burrows took 2 for 15, including the important wicket of Karen Rolton for 2, in an impressive debut while Suzie Bates also captured a couple of victims. The next game of the series is at the same ground on Tuesday as both teams prepare for the World Cup in Australia in March.

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